Safety with the
portable ladders
Falls from portable ladders (straight, step or combination, and with
extension) are one of the main causes of occupational deaths and injuries.
• Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder.
• Avoid electrical hazards! — Look for overhead power lines before operating a ladder.
• Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
• Always inspect the ladder before use. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until it is repaired or discarded.
• Always maintain three-point contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body close to the center of the ladder.
step and always face the ladder while climbing (see diagram).
• Use only appropriate ladders and accessories (ladder levelers, jacks, etc.)
or hooks) for their designed purposes.
• Stairs must be free of any slippery materials on the steps, rungs or feet.
• Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., a step ladder) as a stand-alone ladder or in a partially enclosed position.
• Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it has been designed for that purpose.

• Use a ladder only on a stable, level surface unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent it from rolling away.
• Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to gain additional height.
• Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or any equipment is on the ladder.
• A straight or extension ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least three feet above the point of support
• Do not stand on the top three rungs of a straight, single, or extension ladder.
• The proper angle for mounting a ladder is to place its base one-quarter of the ladder's working length from a wall or other vertical surface.
• A ladder placed anywhere where it may be displaced by other work activities must be secured to prevent displacement or a barricade must be erected to keep traffic away from the ladder.
• Make sure all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
• Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of a ladder. Be aware of the ladder’s load capacity and the weight it can support, including the weight of any tools or equipment.

Source: https://elpais.com/salud-y-bienestar/2024-07-23/neuronas-melt-down-as-high-temperatures-are-lastran-at-the-brain’s-function.html